Other Effective area-based Conservation Measures areas support the commitment to halting and reversing biodiversity loss and will help fight the effects of climate change
Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs) are areas that conserve biodiversity even though their primary purpose is not the conservation of nature. These areas contribute to Canada's ongoing efforts to protect biodiversity and meet the nation's goal of conserving 30 per cent of lands and waters in Canada by 2030.
Today, the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, announced the recognition of five sites as part of the country's growing network of OECMs. The sites, four of which are national historic sites, include: Rideau Canal National Historic Site, Navy Island National Historic Site, and Fort George National Historic Site in Ontario; Grosse-Île & Irish Memorial National Historic Site in Quebec; and Ya Ha Tinda Ranch in Alberta.
The five newly recognized OECMs span across various landscapes and ecosystems, offering a diverse range of habitats that are crucial for the protection of biodiversity. These sites, already part of the network administered by Parks Canada, are conserved areas that contribute to maintaining the health of species and ecosystems, but they differ from formally protected areas like national parks.
These sites are managed for cultural or recreational reasons, among other things, yet still contribute significantly to protecting nature. OECMs play a key role in conserving biodiversity on managed lands in Canada, complementing protected areas to strengthen the national conservation network.
Using standardized, pan-Canadian criteria for OECMs based on the international guidelines and standards established by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, Parks Canada is able to recognize national historic sites, canals, and other sites for their important role in biodiversity conservation. This recognition is part of Canada's broader conservation efforts, which also include creating new protected areas, restoring ecosystems, and supporting Indigenous-led conservation initiatives.
Canada's commitment to biodiversity protection and the expansion of the network of protected and conserved areas reflects a growing understanding that conservation requires a variety of approaches. These newly recognized areas will continue to play a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems, supporting wildlife, and increasing Canada's resilience to climate change.
